NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Global: US-Iran: future stability of Middle East hangs on success of nuclear deal – but initial signs are not good

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Simon Mabon, Professor of International Relations, Lancaster University

    For the second week in a row, senior officials from the United States and Iran will get together to take part in talks about the Iranian nuclear programme. It’s the second round in the latest negotiations – the first having taken place in Oman on April 12.

    But recent statements from both the White House and senior Iranian officials, including a difference of opinion on where the talks should be held, suggest that rapid diplomatic successes may not be forthcoming.

    Donald Trump’s stance on Iran has been unsurprisingly belligerent. It was the first Trump administration that withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal and imposed the policy of “maximum pressure” on Iran. Since returning to the Oval Office, Trump has reimposed this policy of maximum pressure.



    Read more:
    Donald Trump backs out of Iran nuclear deal: now what?

    Posting on X, the US special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, declared that “Iran must stop and eliminate its nuclear enrichment and weaponization program”. He also called for verification of any missiles stockpiled in the Islamic republic.

    Iranian officials vociferously rejected these US demands, with the foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, asserting that the missile programme is not for discussion.

    Tehran needs a deal

    There is little doubt that Iran wants a deal, perhaps even needs a deal. It has been hit hard by sanctions over the past decade, which have hollowed out the country’s middle class.

    Israel’s military strikes on Iran and its allies over the past year have eroded the ideological and military clout of the Islamic Republic and wider “axis of resistance”. With the weakening of many of its allies, Iran’s missiles possess even greater importance as a deterrence.

    The strong line taken by the Trump administration leaves little room for manoeuvre. It risks further emboldening hardline elements in Iran, who are perhaps less willing to engage diplomatically. But any belligerent rhetoric from voices in Iran risks pouring fuel on an already incendiary situation.

    At the same time, the Islamic Republic faces a range of serious pressures domestically, such as that seen in the Woman, Life, Freedom movement, as well as increasingly vocal opposition from abroad – notably from the self-proclaimed Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, the son of the Shah who was ousted in 1979.

    Though Iran may want a deal, it cannot capitulate – particularly after the events of the last year. And nor should it.

    US weighs its strategy

    Hawks in the US, Israel and elsewhere have, of course, heralded the Trump administration’s stance. Fears of an Iranian nuclear programme continue to drive the actions of Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and others – although reports have just emerged that proposed Israeli strikes on targets in Iran were vetoed by Trump in favour of more negotiation.

    While the Gulf states would once have celebrated a tough stance on Iran, the situation is different now. Iran’s long-time rival, Saudi Arabia, has put aside decades of animosity in the hope of a more prosperous shared future.

    In a 2023 agreement mediated by China, Saudi Arabia and Iran agreed to normalise relations, reopening embassies and embarking on a series of coordinated military exercises. For Saudi Arabia, and in particular its crown prince and de facto ruler Mohammed bin Salman, regional stability is essential in realising the ambitious Vision2030 programme – which leans heavily into global investor confidence and trust.

    As a result, the kingdom undertook a pragmatic shift in its regional affairs, embarking on a process of diplomatic rapprochement that surprised many observers. Riyadh has also taken steps towards normalisation with Israel, though the ongoing destruction of Gaza has paused such moves, at least for now.

    At the same time as the nuclear negotiations take place, Israeli strikes on targets in Syria continue. The fall of the Assad regime at the end of 2024 – and the back seat taken by its long-time supporter, Russia – has dramatically altered the political landscape of Syria.

    Though its former president, Bashar al-Assad, has found refuge in Russia, Moscow has taken a watching brief, eager not to antagonise Syria’s new regime and jeopardise its strategically important military bases on the Mediterranean coast. Members of groups previously favoured by the Assad regime, notably the Alawi communities, have fled to the Russian naval base at Latakia in search of protection.

    But thousands of others have been killed amid increasing violence as the forces of the new regime, led by Ahmad al-Shara, seek to extinguish all remnants of the Assad regime – a series of events that looks eerily similar to what occurred in Iraq 20 years ago, when the process of “de-Ba’athification” attempted to remove all traces of Saddam Hussein’s regime from public life.

    Fragile regional order

    The situation across the region is precarious, with the actions of global powers continuing to reverberate. While Washington puts pressure on Tehran and Moscow waits, the scope for Chinese influence in the region increases.

    Ironically, Trump’s tariffs on China may push Beijing further into the Middle East, seeking to capitalise on available opportunities. Its Belt and Road Initiative positions the Middle East firmly within China’s strategic interests. This is likely to open up a new front in the rivalry between Washington and Beijing.

    All the while, it is the people of the Middle East who continue to pay the heaviest price. Ongoing wars and insecurity, fears of a regional conflict, and precarious political conditions – as well as rising food prices and healthcare pressures – are creating a perfect storm that heightens the pressures and challenges of daily life.

    Simon Mabon receives funding from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. He is a Senior Research Fellow at the Foreign Policy Centre in London.

    – ref. US-Iran: future stability of Middle East hangs on success of nuclear deal – but initial signs are not good – https://theconversation.com/us-iran-future-stability-of-middle-east-hangs-on-success-of-nuclear-deal-but-initial-signs-are-not-good-254817

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The hidden health risks of lip fillers

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jim Frame, Professor of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Anglia Ruskin University

    wedmoments.stock/Shutterstock

    Plump, pouty lips are everywhere – from social media filters to celebrity red carpets. But behind the glossy aesthetic of lip fillers lies a growing concern among medical professionals.

    While increasing numbers of people in the UK – often young women – are opting for dermal fillers to achieve a fuller look without surgery, the rise of overfilled “trout pouts” and stiff “duck lips” has sparked a wave of alarm, even among those who might typically support cosmetic treatments.

    Lip fillers are far from risk-free – and in some cases, the health consequences are permanent.

    Unlike surgical procedures, lip fillers are not legally considered medical treatments. That means they are largely unregulated, and in many cases, are being injected by people with little or no medical training.

    This is a problem, because lips are delicate and highly mobile. They contain very little natural fat and rely on a ring of tiny muscles to express everything from joy to concern. Injecting too much filler, or using the wrong kind, can interfere with these muscles – leaving the lips stiff, unnatural, or even immobile.

    While some patients seek lip fillers for genuine medical reasons, such as facial palsy or disfigurement, these are exceptions. For most, the health risks can outweigh the cosmetic benefits.

    What are fillers made of?

    The substances used in lip fillers have changed over time. Older materials such as liquid silicone were eventually phased out due to serious complications, including scarring and migration of the product to other parts of the body.

    Today, most lip fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA) – a substance that naturally exists in our bodies, particularly in connective tissue. HA attracts water, giving the skin volume and keeping it hydrated. As we age, our natural levels of HA decrease, which is why skin becomes drier and loses firmness.

    The HA used in fillers is either extracted from animal tissue, such as rooster combs, or produced synthetically using bacteria. While this modern version is safer than older fillers, it still carries risks including allergic reactions, reactivation of cold sores (herpes simplex virus), infections and inflammation.

    There have also been rare, but severe, cases of vascular complications such as blindness and tissue death, when fillers accidentally enter blood vessels.

    The risk to kidneys

    Less widely known – but equally concerning – is how repeat filler use may affect internal organs, particularly the kidneys.

    Hyaluronic acid isn’t just a skin plumper – it also plays a role in the immune system. When the body detects inflammation, such as from repeated filler injections, it can respond by producing HA in the kidneys. This triggers a chain reaction: first, the kidneys produce high-molecular weight HA, which increases inflammation. Later, they switch to low-molecular weight HA, which reduces inflammation but causes fibrosis, or scarring of the tissue.

    This double-edged response has been linked to chronic kidney disease and, in severe cases, even renal failure. Researchers are still exploring these links, but the risks become more significant with each repeated injection – especially in people who are genetically or medically vulnerable.

    HA can also contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate crystals in the kidneys. These can lead to kidney stones and further tissue damage, potentially causing lifelong complications.

    Who should avoid lip fillers?

    Given these risks, some people should approach fillers with extreme caution – or avoid them entirely. These include people with a history of kidney problems or allergic reactions to filler ingredients, recurrent cold sores, autoimmune conditions (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis), diabetes or blood clotting disorders, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

    Despite the risks, lip fillers remain widely accessible and heavily promoted – particularly to young people influenced by social media trends. Many undergo these treatments without fully understanding what they’re putting into their bodies.

    So, what needs to change? First, better regulation. If lip filler injections were treated as medical procedures, stricter controls could help reduce botched treatments and serious complications.

    Second, more education. Patients need to understand that just because something is “non-surgical” doesn’t mean it’s safe. Fillers are still foreign substances being injected into the body. They come with risks – and these risks can increase over time.

    Lip fillers can offer subtle, beautiful enhancements when used sparingly and professionally. But when misused or overused, they can lead to lasting disfigurement, loss of function, and even serious internal health issues like kidney damage.

    Beauty trends should never come at the cost of your health.

    Jim Frame does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. The hidden health risks of lip fillers – https://theconversation.com/the-hidden-health-risks-of-lip-fillers-254433

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: AI-controlled fighter jets may be closer than we think — and would change the face of warfare

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Arun Dawson, PhD Candidate, Department of War Studies, King’s College London

    F-35 Lightning II combat jet. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Darlene Seltmann

    Could we be on the verge of an era where fighter jets take flight without pilots – and are controlled by AI? US R Adm Michael Donnelly recently said that an upcoming combat jet could be the navy’s last one with an pilot in the cockpit. That marks a striking, if not entirely surprising, shift in thinking about the future of aerial warfare.

    The US Navy is not alone. Other programmes to develop next generation fighter jets are also touting uncrewed options as a distinct possibility.

    However, we have been here before. Senior leaders in the US Navy said they believed the last crewed fighter jet had been procured in 2015. As far back as 1957, premature obituaries were being written for the fighter pilot era. So is there anything different now?

    The ability of a fighter jet to manoeuvre, accelerate, and maintain high speeds, crucial for air combat, is called kinematic performance. Estimates are as high as 80% on how much pilots reduce kinematic performance. Though this figure may be disputed, there is no question that uncrewed aircraft enjoy several key advantages.

    Without the need for life support systems such as ejection seats and oxygen supplies, these aircraft can perform in ways that are beyond the scope of piloted aircraft. But additional trends are pushing militaries to reconsider the role of the human pilot altogether.

    Systems enabled by artificial intelligence (AI) are already demonstrating superior performance in military exercises. In existing remotely piloted aircraft, a human operator remains in control. This model is known as “human-in-the-loop”. AI is now enabling the possibility of human-on-the-loop (where humans take a step back, supervising and intervening if necessary) and even “human-out-of-the-loop” systems (in which AI selects and engages targets autonomously).

    The latter category, while controversial, may offer decisive advantages. In scenarios where milliseconds matter, a fully autonomous system could outperform any human operator, to the extent that senior defence leaders have expressed a willingness to trust AI with lethal decision-making under certain conditions. Others add that autonomous systems could adhere more rigorously to the laws of armed conflict compared with a human operator.

    Unpiloted combat jets also offer potential financial savings. Fighter jets are expensive to build, operate and maintain, not least because of the training and equipment needed to support pilots. A 2011 study found that the life cycle cost of a surveillance drone was roughly half that of a comparable piloted platform. And cheaper aircraft are important because of the likely losses which will be inflicted on air forces in the event of a conflict with Russia or China.

    Another advantage of fully autonomous aircraft is risk mitigation. As Nato militaries grapple with a shortage of trained pilots for potential conflicts between states, uncrewed systems offer a way to restore the balance without putting lives at risk of death or capture.

    An F-16 Fighting Falcon undergoes modifications as part of the Venom autonomous fighter jet programme at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.
    US Air Force / Samuel King Jr

    Therefore, one option for militaries is to expand the use of remotely piloted aircraft – drones similar to those deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Crucially, this would ensure humans maintain control over weapons use. The only difference with the present would be in making these systems the backbone of the fleet, rather than supplementary systems struggling to operate in hostile airspace. This would require upgrading them with state-of-the-art technologies like stealth. This helps fighters jets reduce their chances of being detected by the enemy’s radar and infrared (heat) sensors.

    A step up from this would be autonomous combat aircraft, carrying the advantages of on- or off-the-loop technologies. The US Air Force’s Project Venom is training AI in modified F-16 jets for eventual transfer to drones. These drones will operate alongside crewed aircraft, as part of mixed human and machine teams. But if this AI software was retained on the F-16s (or transferred to more advanced fighter jets), it could produce a squadron of autonomous jets just as capable as those piloted by humans.

    A more radical idea is to forgo traditional fighter jets altogether. Proponents of this vision imagine swarms of low-cost, expendable drones working together to overwhelm enemy defences. While current drones have limitations in range, payload, and labour requirements, true “swarming” could change the equation.



    Read more:
    How a new wave of fighter jets could transform aerial combat

    Current limitations

    So what is stopping militaries from pressing ahead with these options? A few things. AI isn’t ready, yet. Machine learning – a subset of AI where algorithms learn from experience – underpins all this. But it still struggles with the inherent ambiguity and creativity of war. Simply putting tyres on an aircraft can thwart computer vision – the field of AI that allows computers to interpret images and videos. So training AI to operate in the full range of possible combat situations is a mammoth task. In the words of one air force commander, “robotified warfare…is centuries away”.

    The US military has used AI agents to pilot the X-62A Vista aircraft.
    USAF / Kyle Brasier

    Another issue concerns communications, since remotely operated drone systems, especially interconnected, swarming ones, need data links. Given how much adversaries are investing in jamming these signals, designs may be pushed in opposite directions: either keeping a pilot onboard or embracing autonomy so the aircraft can keep fighting, even if it is cut off.

    Yet the real limit may be a fear of crossing the Rubicon. While the US and its allies have a de facto “no first use” policy on fully autonomous weapons, the demands of warfare against an enemy willing to use such systems may erode these norms.

    So, the navy’s statement is a warning: the age of the human fighter pilot might be ending. But it’s the next war that could make that decision for us.

    Arun Dawson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. AI-controlled fighter jets may be closer than we think — and would change the face of warfare – https://theconversation.com/ai-controlled-fighter-jets-may-be-closer-than-we-think-and-would-change-the-face-of-warfare-254447

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Minister told to leave Portsmouth out of reorganisation plans

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    In a letter to Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution Jim McMahon, Cllr Steve Pitt reiterated Portsmouth City Council’s view that it is already a sustainable organisation and should not be required to be part of the Government’s Local Government Reorganisation programme which is mainly aimed at two-tier council areas or failing authorities.

    Cllr Pitt said: “The government is arguing we are too small and can be more financially stable through Local Government Reorganisation but there is no evidence for that. We have disproved their arguments and continue to tell Government that Portsmouth City Council does not need to be part of any reorganisation.

    “Currently Portsmouth is in a better position financially than many other councils and we have significant concerns about what new councils would inherit, given the eye-watering deficits experienced by other local authorities, notably Hampshire County Council with its £136m forecast deficit for 2026-27. I understand the Government’s desire to have unitary councils but Portsmouth is already a sustainable unitary so should be left alone.”

    The letter also addresses concerns the Government could force the city to become part of a larger area. It sets out that any reorganisation would need to be based on the areas that residents use as a community when living their lives, whether that be for work, leisure, education, shopping or anything else. The view is a minimum of four council areas would be required to cover the areas currently under Hampshire County Council, Portsmouth City Council and Southampton City Council.

    Portsmouth City Council has stated if forced to meet the Government’s target of a 500,000 population, it’s preference would be to combine with Gosport, Fareham and Havant council areas, but consideration should also be given to the immediate areas bordering this.

    Cllr Pitt added: “The area covered by Portsmouth, Southampton and Hampshire is huge and needs a minimum of four separate councils to support residents but this should really be looking at where communities exist and how best they are supported. People don’t live their lives within council boundaries drawn on a map decades ago and we need to make sure, if Government forces change on us, it is done in a way that best meets residents needs based on the areas they identify with and use.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Announces 39 Jobs as Concrete Manufacturer Selects Randolph County for New Plant

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Announces 39 Jobs as Concrete Manufacturer Selects Randolph County for New Plant

    Governor Stein Announces 39 Jobs as Concrete Manufacturer Selects Randolph County for New Plant
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, Governor Josh Stein announced that Gillespie Precast will establish a new manufacturing plant in Randolph County that will create 39 jobs. The company, a leading producer of custom precast concrete, will invest $10 million in Asheboro.

    “North Carolina offers manufacturing companies like Gillespie Precast an outstanding place to do business,” said Governor Stein. “We’re the number one manufacturing state in the Southeast thanks to our skilled, well-trained workforce.”

    Gillespie Precast is a fifth-generation family-owned company with headquarters in Chestertown, Maryland. It manufactures a wide range of concrete products used in different industrial applications, such as box culverts, utility vaults, and custom walls. Precast concrete is an engineered construction product produced by casting concrete in a reusable mold or “form” which is then cured in a controlled environment, transported to a construction site, and maneuvered into place. The company’s project in Randolph County will establish a manufacturing operation to produce precast concrete wet and dry utility vaults, manholes, catch basins, box culverts and other custom structures. The new facility will allow the company to better serve customers in northeast, mid-Atlantic, and southern markets in North America.

    “The executive team targeted several sites both in Virginia and North Carolina for possible expansion,” said Frank Sisk, Director of Business Development for Gillespie Precast. “The search led us to Asheboro, and once we walked the property, we knew this was going to be the place we would establish our southern base of operations.”  

    “The Gillespie family has been successful for over a century by providing quality products to the markets we serve,” Sisk continued. “But it has been the exceptional service we provide our contractor partners that sets us apart from the competition. We believe that North Carolina and Randolph County, in particular, share the same foundational principles of family, quality, and service to our communities as Gillespie Precast and we look forward to being a generational benefit to the state.”

    “Manufacturers like Gillespie Precast create durable, family-sustaining jobs in communities large and small,” said North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “With our infrastructure, workforce, and state and local partnerships, manufacturers can find the right place to invest and create jobs in North Carolina.”

    Although wages will vary depending on the position, the average salary for the new jobs will be $64,154. The current average wage in Randolph County is $49,355.

    A performance-based grant of $120,000 from the One North Carolina Fund to Gillespie Precast NC LLC will help facilitate the company’s project into Randolph County. The OneNC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All OneNC grants require a matching grant from local governments and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.

    “We enthusiastically welcome Gillespie Precast to Asheboro and Randolph County, we believe this company will experience remarkable success in our community,” said N.C. Representative Neal Jackson. “These employment opportunities and private-sector investment will further invigorate our region’s economy.”

    “Successful economic development projects take sustained and focused effort from a wide variety of state, regional, and local partners,” said N.C. Senator David Craven, Jr. “I appreciate the hard work from the great folks that helped us reach today’s great announcement from Gillespie Precast, and we will continue to support the company as they establish operations in Randolph County.”

    Partnering with the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina on this project were the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, the Commerce Department’s Division of Workforce Solutions, Randolph County, and the Randolph County Economic Development Corporation. 

    Apr 17, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Leads Legislation to Protect Second Amendment Rights of Law-Abiding Renters and Tenants

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)

    HULL, IOWA – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) introduced the Preserving Rights Of Tenants by Ensuring Compliance To (PROTECT) the Second Amendment Act. This legislation would secure the Second Amendment rights of Americans who live in rental properties whose landlords receive financial assistance from the federal government. 

    More specifically, this proposal ensures that landlords and rental property managers cannot unlawfully restrict firearm ownership of tenants.

    “The right of Iowans to keep and bear arms is enshrined in our Constitution and shall not be infringed. These constitutional protections must be strongly defended and certainly do not cease to exist for gun owners living in rental properties,” said Rep. Feenstra. “My PROTECT the Second Amendment Act ensures that landlords or rental property managers who receive federal financial assistance at taxpayer expense cannot unlawfully restrict Americans from exercising their constitutional rights. As a strong advocate of the Second amendment, I will always defend the right of Iowans to keep and bear arms and support law-abiding gun owners.”

    “The right of law-abiding Americans to keep firearms in their homes for self-defense has been a fundamental freedom since our nation’s founding and has been reaffirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court,” said John Commerford, Executive Director of the NRA Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA). “No one should be forced to give up this right, especially when a landlord or property manager is receiving federal tax dollars. The NRA applauds Representative Feenstra for introducing this important legislation that protects the right to keep and bear arms.”

    The PROTECT the Second Amendment Act has three main objectives, which include:

    1. Protecting tenants’ rights to lawfully own a firearm within federally assisted rental housing;
    2. Allowing the lawful transport of firearms through common areas when entering and exiting the property; and
    3. Preventing property managers and landlords who accept federal assistance from prohibiting or discriminating against tenants’ constitutional right to own a firearm.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Hassan Statement on RFK Jr.’s Comments on Children with Autism

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statement in response to U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s description of children with autism as, “…kids who will never pay taxes. They’ll never hold a job. They’ll never play baseball. They’ll never write a poem. They’ll never go out on a date. Many of them will never use a toilet unassisted,”:   
    “Secretary Kennedy’s comments about people with autism reflect his profound lack of knowledge about the condition and his ongoing resistance to meaningful scientific inquiry. Anyone who has basic information about autism knows that it is a condition that includes a spectrum of behaviors and/or delays. But instead of providing accurate information, Secretary Kennedy presented a stigmatizing, dehumanizing, and wildly inaccurate description of people whose care his department is supposed to oversee. 
    “Some people with autism are fully employed, and some people who experience autism have unique academic or technical gifts. Some people who have autism need 24/7 care, and some people with autism are not fully independent but are able to function well with modest supports. Secretary Kennedy could learn a lot from people who experience this condition – and their families – if he chose to. But he has not.
    “Robert F. Kennedy Jr. could help the country take a step forward if he listened to families, caregivers, health care providers, and scientists who actually understand autism and are doing the work to identify its cause or causes. He could help the country move forward if he insisted that HHS invest in home care and individualized supports for people with disabilities. He could help the country move forward if he insisted that the federal government meet its promise to provide 40 percent of the funding for special education in this country. Instead, he is focusing on enacting a budget that will cut hundreds of billions of dollars from the Medicaid program, which is a critical component in our ability as a country to care for people with disabilities.
    “Secretary Kennedy is using a position of great power to continue to exploit the vulnerabilities of millions of Americans, all for the purpose of spreading his own unfounded and fully debunked beliefs. And by diverting resources and energy to rehash unfounded conspiracies about autism’s cause, Secretary Kennedy himself is a barrier to the type of inquiry that could help us better understand autism – and bring much-needed answers and care to people who experience this disabling condition.”
    During the HHS press conference, Secretary Kennedy also emphasized the Department’s focus on discovering “precisely what the environmental toxins are that are causing” autism, despite current scientific research giving no indication that environmental factors are the cause of autism. These comments follow recent reporting on Secretary Kennedy’s hiring of David Geier – a vaccine cynic with a record of harming children and manipulating data to fit his disproven conspiracy theories – to head a federal study into the long-disproven theory that vaccines are linked to autism. Senator Hassan voted against Secretary Kennedy’s confirmation, speaking on the Senate floor about the threat that Mr. Kennedy poses to public health, and pushed Mr. Kennedy at his confirmation hearing on his record of supporting long-disproven conspiracies that link vaccines and autism. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Easter excitement as families enjoy the Lord Mayor’s Easter Trail and Fun Day!

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Tannaghmore Gardens became a vibrant hub of laughter and excitement today (Thursday 17 April) as the Lord Mayor’s Easter Trail and Fun Day was nothing short of a hopping success!

    From 1pm to 4pm, families flocked to the Tannaghmore Gardens, eager to dive into a world of Easter fun. Highlights of the event included the much-anticipated Easter egg trail, Easter themed face painting sessions, Bushcraft activities, inflatables, bubble fun, music and games that kept the little ones entertained for hours!

    “We couldn’t have asked for a better turnout. It was wonderful to see families come together to celebrate the start of the Easter break, and all proceeds raised will go towards the great work of Women’s Aid Armagh Down” commented the Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Sarah Duffy

    Thanks to the event and donations, the Lord Mayor was able to raise £2,000 for her chosen charity Women’s Aid Armagh Down.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leader pays tribute to Councillor Val Walker

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    I was extremely sad to hear of Val’s sudden and unexpected death and my thoughts are with her family and friends.

    It was a privilege to get to know Val, both as a friend and colleague. What struck me from the very beginning was her intelligence, her wit but, most of all, her warmth and kindness. Even in the heat of political debate she would always remain calm, constructive and respectful of other people’s views.

    Prior to becoming a councillor, her roles in education and library services over many years gave her a long-lasting passion for reading, something that she loved to share with others – helping them to discover the wonderful world of books and libraries.

    Alongside this, she campaigned tirelessly for the Labour Party, as she did for the rights of workers, women and single parents. She spent thousands of hours knocking on doors and speaking to local residents – and I know that being elected as councillor for Fountainbridge and Craiglockhart in 2022 filled her with huge pride, something that stayed with her throughout.

    She brought the same determination to her role as Chair of the Council’s Joint Consultative Committee and I know she was held in the highest regard by the Trade Unions, who recognised a lifetime of activism and support.

    Val’s other great passion for theatre, and the arts more generally, made her the perfect choice for Culture and Communities Convener, a role that she approached with vigour and enthusiasm. She was never happier than when she’d managed to find a way of reaching consensus with all parties and I know that she was trusted and admired by colleagues from across the chamber.

    She was also a great champion of the festivals, and of the benefits they bring to our city’s reputation, but – in typically balanced fashion – an equally fierce defender of our parks and greenspaces and the huge enjoyment they bring to our residents.

    Val is a great loss to the council, to her colleagues and to the city. We will miss her immensely.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 17 April 2025 Joint News Release Africa CDC and WHO update mpox strategy as outbreaks persist

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Mpox is a viral illness that spreads between people, mainly through close contact. It causes painful skin and mucosal lesions, often accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease can be debilitating and disfiguring. 

    Historically a zoonotic disease transmitted from infected animals, mpox has increasingly shown a tendency to spread between people. In 2022, a variant of the virus, clade IIb, began spreading globally through sexual contact. Since late 2023, yet another viral strain, clade Ib, began spreading through sexual networks and within households and through close contact. This prompted Africa CDC to declare a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security and the WHO Director-General to declare a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in August 2024. 

    By August 2024, the virus had begun spreading from the Democratic Republic of the Congo to 4 neighbouring countries. Since then, 28 countries around the world have reported cases of mpox due to clade Ib. Outside Africa, cases remain largely travel-related. However, within Africa, in addition to transmission in Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda, local transmission has now been documented in additional countries including the Republic of the Congo, South Africa, South Sudan, the United Republic of Tanzania and Zambia. 

    Since the declaration of the emergency, both regional and global support has increased, particularly for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the epicentre of the outbreak. The Africa CDC and WHO Joint Continental Mpox Plan has guided these efforts, focusing on ten key pillars: coordination, risk communication and community engagement, disease surveillance, laboratory capacity, clinical management, infection prevention and control, vaccination, research, logistics, and maintaining essential health services. 

    Vaccination efforts are underway, with more than 650 000 doses administered in 6 countries, 90% of which have been administered in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Overall, over a million doses have been delivered to 10 countries, with efforts ongoing to secure additional vaccine supplies. 

    Diagnostic testing capacity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has grown significantly, driven by the expansion of laboratory infrastructure – from 2 laboratories in late 2023 to 23 laboratories in 12 provinces today. With new, near-point-of-care tests currently being rolled out in the country, capacity is expected to increase even further. 

    Despite this progress, major challenges remain. Ongoing conflict and insecurity in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the incidence of mpox remains high, as well as humanitarian aid cuts, continue to limit the public health response and restrict access to essential services. Across countries and partners, over US$ 220 million is needed to fill funding gaps for the mpox response.  

    The updated Continental Response Plan calls for intensified efforts to bring outbreaks under control, while also taking concrete actions to integrate mpox into routine health services.  

    Along with the Continental Response Plan for Africa, WHO has updated the global strategic plan to curb – and where feasible, to stop – human-to-human transmission of mpox. In the first two months of 2025, 60 countries reported mpox, with the majority of cases and deaths reported from the African continent.  The joint Continental Response Plan is aligned with the global strategy. 

    Africa CDC and WHO continue to work closely with national governments, local communities, and partners to curb transmission, control the outbreak, and build longer-term resilience within public health systems. 

    “,”datePublished”:”2025-04-17T15:00:00.0000000+00:00″,”image”:”https://cdn.who.int/media/images/default-source/emergencies-and-disasters/2024—mpox-outbreak/mpox-patient-drc-august-2024.jpg?sfvrsn=66105f23_14″,”publisher”:{“@type”:”Organization”,”name”:”World Health Organization: WHO”,”logo”:{“@type”:”ImageObject”,”url”:”https://www.who.int/Images/SchemaOrg/schemaOrgLogo.jpg”,”width”:250,”height”:60}},”dateModified”:”2025-04-17T15:00:00.0000000+00:00″,”mainEntityOfPage”:”https://www.who.int/news/item/17-04-2025-africa-cdc-and-who-update-mpox-strategy-as-outbreaks-persist”,”@context”:”http://schema.org”,”@type”:”NewsArticle”};
    ]]>

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Marks One-Year Milestone of Know2Protect® Campaign, Strengthening Nationwide Efforts to Combat Online Child Exploitation

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    WASHINGTON D.C. –  Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) celebrated the one-year anniversary of its Know2Protect: Together We Can Stop Online Child Exploitation™ public awareness campaign.

    Since its inception, the Know2Protect campaign, housed within the DHS Cyber Crimes Center (C3), has had a profound impact, reaching millions through traditional and digital media channels. The campaign has empowered young people, parents, educators, corporations, and community leaders with essential resources to prevent and report online child sexual exploitation and abuse (CSEA).

    “At the Department of Homeland Security, our mission is to protect the American people, and that includes protecting our children. The internet has completely changed how we connect, but it has also opened new doors for predators who want to harm our kids,” said DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. “It’s a topic that should unite all of us, and I appreciate the opportunity to highlight the work of Homeland Security Investigations and all that they do to combat online child exploitation.”

    The threat of online child exploitation has never been bigger or more sophisticated. DHS increased the footprint of law enforcement partners at C3, last year, to enhance coordination across all DHS agencies and offices to combat cyber-related crimes and further the Department’s mission to combat online CSEA. In 2024, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) identified and arrested nearly 5,000 individuals involved in online CSEA, while also recovering over 1,700 child victims. In the same year, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received more than 20 million reports of online child sexual abuse material.

    By providing comprehensive tools on Know2Protect.gov, the campaign has become a powerful force in raising awareness about the severe risks children face online, while emphasizing prevention, safety measures, and offering critical support for survivors. Since its inception last year, the campaign has made a tangible impact through its outreach efforts—resulting in 128 victim disclosures and over 90 investigative leads in the fight against online child exploitation.

    Know2Protect’s work to coordinate federal efforts to combat online child exploitation and abuse has made an astounding impact across the world. The campaign has achieved more than a half a billion (683M) impressions online, with 18% of the impressions coming from donated advertising dollars from campaign partners such as Google, Snapchat, X, Lamar, Meta and Roblox.

    “We all have a responsibility to protect children from online exploitation,” said Head of Global Government Affairs at X, Romina Khananisho. “As the global town square, X is proud to partner with DHS’ Cyber Crimes Center to support the Know2Protect campaign. We commit to raising awareness about all the tools available to combat child exploitation and encourage all our users to join us in this critical mission by sharing the information with your communities.”

    Expanded Partnership Efforts

    The K2P campaign’s success is fueled by partnerships with leading technology companies, major sports leagues, youth-serving organizations, law enforcement associations and other private sector partners. These collaborations have expanded Know2Protect’s reach, delivering its vital message to young people across social media platforms, sporting events, and community organizations, ensuring it resonates wherever they live, learn, and play.

    Past and current partners like Snap, Meta, X, and Roblox have played a crucial role in disseminating safety messages to their vast user bases, while NASCAR and the NFL have supported the campaign by integrating Know2Protect PSAs and other materials into their events.

    “Snap congratulates the Department of Homeland Security on the first anniversary of its impactful Know2Protect public awareness campaign,” said Jacqueline Beauchere, Global Head of Platform Safety at Snap Inc., the parent company of Snapchat. “Snap was the first entity to support the campaign in 2024, commissioning bespoke research, offering free ad space on Snapchat for educational campaign materials, and creating a fun Snapchat Lens to promote learning and engagement. We applaud and join in the Department’s efforts to educate youth, parents, policymakers, and others about the risks of child sexual exploitation and abuse both online and off.”  

    “At Meta, we’ve spent over a decade building tools to fight criminals who try to exploit young people online,” said Meta’s Global Head of Safety, Antigone Davis. “To complement our in-app protections and make them even more effective, it’s important that young people also feel confident to spot the signs of online harm and know where to go for help. That’s why we’ve also been focused on educational campaigns for teens and parents, and why we’re proud to continue supporting the Department of Homeland Security’s vital Know2Protect campaign as it moves into its second year.”

    Education and Support

    Know2Protect’s educational initiative, Project iGuardian, provides direct training to schools, community groups, and organizations to help identify and address online safety risks. As the official in-person training program of the Know2Protect campaign, Project iGuardian is led by Homeland Security Investigations and offers presentations to children, teens, parents, and trusted adults. Since its re-launch in October 2023, Project iGuardian has conducted nearly 2,000 presentations, reaching over 200,000 people both domestically and internationally.

    “We know it is critical to provide children, parents, and caregivers with access to resources and information on how to report crimes targeting children online,” said Director of Global Programs at Google.org, Amanda Timberg. “We are proud to once again donate Google Search and YouTube ad credits to promote the Department of Homeland Security’s Know2Protect campaign to raise awareness on the issue and to help children stay safe online.”

    More Accomplishments

    The campaign has achieved several notable milestones over the last year, including:

    • 2024 Cannes Corporate Media & TV Awards Finalist for its 90-second PSA.
    • 2024 Homeland Security Today Holiday Hero Award where the campaign was honored with the Most Innovative Campaign to Combat Child Exploitation.
    • 2024-2025 school year #Back2School sub-campaign, featuring engaging and educational resources for teens and family members in the form of crossword puzzles, word searches, Project iGuardian coloring pages, a first day of school picture sign, Family Online Safety Agreement, Internet Safety Checklist, and printable safety posters and tipsheets for schools to display in classrooms and hallways.
    • The release of nine new videos, including the widely popular 90-second PSA on the dangers of online CSEA, which has accumulated 6.8 million views on YouTube and 14.8 million impressions through TV advertising. Other key releases include the Sexting and Sextortion PSA, as well as 15- and 30-second PSAs highlighting how quickly online interactions can take dangerous turns. These have also aired on the NFL Network and at NASCAR events, significantly extending the reach of the Know2Protect message. The campaign also recently released a 60-second PSA focusing on how online exploitation happens and why we need the public’s help.
    • The launch of the K2P Kids and Teens Portal, a dedicated space for children and teens aged 10 and up, offering age-appropriate tips and resources to help them protect themselves online.
    • The impactful activation of partnerships across the technology, sports, social media, and gaming industries, including:
      • Snapchat Lens activation.
      • K2P activations at high-profile events like the Daytona 500, NASCAR Talladega 24, NFL Flag Championship 2024, MLB and MLS All-Star Games 2024, having a presence at the NFL Super Bowl Experience and a NASCAR Kids newsletter feature.
      • Scouting America and Know2Protect unveiled a special Project iGuardian scouting patch that honors the commitment of scouts who attend the DHS-led online safety training and who pledge to keep themselves and others safe online.

    Upcoming Initiatives

    Know2Protect is taking bold steps to further amplify its impact and continue the fight against online CSEA. Upcoming initiatives and events will provide even more opportunities for individuals and organizations to get involved and take action, including:

    • A Project iGuardian presentation livestream on X for parents, trusted adults and teens, hosted by country music star John Rich — tune in April 23 at 8 p.m. EST and learn how you can help keep children safe online. Be sure to follow @Know2Protect on X so you don’t miss it!
    • June marks Internet Safety Month and there’s no better time to reinforce the importance of setting healthy online boundaries. Know2Protect’s #DigitalBoundaries sub-campaign continues DHS’s momentum to educate and empower children, teens, parents and trusted adults to prevent and combat online CSEA by setting healthy online boundaries during the summer months when kids will have time to spend online.
    • In August 2025, the campaign will launch Pledge2Protect, the official, nationwide call-to-action of the Know2Protect campaign. The goal of Pledge2Protect will be to galvanize communities to take action by taking the pledge to prevent crimes of exploitation targeting kids online. Parents, teens and kids will have the opportunity to take the pledge, receive age-appropriate resources, and share that knowledge with others by passing the pledge. It’s time to move from awareness to action—help us prevent online exploitation and implement life-saving strategies.
    • A variety of previously signed partners are expected to continue their official partnership with Know2Protect.
    • Know2Protect welcomes its new partnerships with X, American Camp Association, Panini America, Kodex and Simple Learning Systems.

    “As we mark the one-year anniversary of the Know2Protect campaign, it’s clear that protecting children from online exploitation demands a united, collective effort,” said Noem. “I urge more organizations to join us in this urgent mission—because every partnership brings us one step closer to eradicating this devastating crime.”

    Know2Protect is working hand-in-hand with private sector leaders, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations to execute this nationwide campaign. Learn more about becoming an official Know2Protect partner.

    “Know2Protect is not just about raising awareness—it’s about sparking real, impactful change,” Noem said. “Backed by our powerful partnerships, this campaign is equipping communities with critical tools to protect children from online predators while also safeguarding against exploitation before it happens. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the fight to prevent further victimization.”

    Early intervention is critical. If you suspect a child may be a victim of online CSEA, call the Know2Protect Tipline at 1-833-591-KNOW (5669) or visit the NCMEC CyberTipline™. If you believe a child has been abducted or is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement and the NCMEC Tipline at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Enlight to Report First Quarter 2025 Financial Results on Tuesday, May 6, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TEL AVIV, Israel, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enlight Renewable Energy (“Enlight”, “the Company”, NASDAQ: ENLT, TASE: ENLT.TA), a leading renewable energy platform, today announced it will release its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, before market open on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

    Conference Call Information

    Enlight will host a conference call to review its financial results and business outlook at 8:00 AM ET on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Management will deliver prepared remarks followed by a question-and-answer session. Participants may join by conference call or webcast:

    Conference Call

    Please pre-register to join the live conference call:
    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI2f3b7998abd744a590906d1adabe0ad1
    Upon registering, you will be emailed a dial-in number, direct passcode and unique PIN.

    Webcast

    Please register and join the live webcast: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/z2k323sj

    The press release with the financial results as well as the investor presentation materials will be accessible on the Company’s website prior to the conference call. Approximately one hour after completion of the live call, an archived version of the webcast will be available on the Company’s investor relations website at https://enlightenergy.co.il/events/

    About Enlight

    Founded in 2008, Enlight develops, finances, constructs, owns, and operates utility-scale renewable energy projects. Enlight operates across the three largest renewable segments today: solar, wind and energy storage. A global platform, Enlight operates in the United States, Israel and 10 European countries. Enlight has been traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange since 2010 (TASE: ENLT) and completed its U.S. IPO (Nasdaq: ENLT) in 2023. Learn more at www.enlightenergy.co.il.

    Investor Contact

    Yonah Weisz
    Director IR
    investors@enlightenergy.co.il

    Erica Mannion or Mike Funari
    Sapphire Investor Relations, LLC
    +1 617 542 6180
    investors@enlightenergy.co.il

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements as contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company’s expectations relating to the Project, the PPA and the related interconnection agreement and lease option, and the completion timeline for the Project, are forward-looking statements. The words “may,” “might,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “target,” “seek,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “contemplate,” “possible,” “forecasts,” “aims” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, though not all forward-looking statements use these words or expressions. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the following: our ability to site suitable land for, and otherwise source, renewable energy projects and to successfully develop and convert them into Operational Projects; availability of, and access to, interconnection facilities and transmission systems; our ability to obtain and maintain governmental and other regulatory approvals and permits, including environmental approvals and permits; construction delays, operational delays and supply chain disruptions leading to increased cost of materials required for the construction of our projects, as well as cost overruns and delays related to disputes with contractors; our suppliers’ ability and willingness to perform both existing and future obligations; competition from traditional and renewable energy companies in developing renewable energy projects; potential slowed demand for renewable energy projects and our ability to enter into new offtake contracts on acceptable terms and prices as current offtake contracts expire; offtakers’ ability to terminate contracts or seek other remedies resulting from failure of our projects to meet development, operational or performance benchmarks; various technical and operational challenges leading to unplanned outages, reduced output, interconnection or termination issues; the dependence of our production and revenue on suitable meteorological and environmental conditions, and our ability to accurately predict such conditions; our ability to enforce warranties provided by our counterparties in the event that our projects do not perform as expected; government curtailment, energy price caps and other government actions that restrict or reduce the profitability of renewable energy production; electricity price volatility, unusual weather conditions (including the effects of climate change, could adversely affect wind and solar conditions), catastrophic weather-related or other damage to facilities, unscheduled generation outages, maintenance or repairs, unanticipated changes to availability due to higher demand, shortages, transportation problems or other developments, environmental incidents, or electric transmission system constraints and the possibility that we may not have adequate insurance to cover losses as a result of such hazards; our dependence on certain operational projects for a substantial portion of our cash flows; our ability to continue to grow our portfolio of projects through successful acquisitions; changes and advances in technology that impair or eliminate the competitive advantage of our projects or upsets the expectations underlying investments in our technologies; our ability to effectively anticipate and manage cost inflation, interest rate risk, currency exchange fluctuations and other macroeconomic conditions that impact our business; our ability to retain and attract key personnel; our ability to manage legal and regulatory compliance and litigation risk across our global corporate structure; our ability to protect our business from, and manage the impact of, cyber-attacks, disruptions and security incidents, as well as acts of terrorism or war; the potential impact of the current conflicts in Israel on our operations and financial condition and Company actions designed to mitigate such impact; changes to existing renewable energy industry policies and regulations that present technical, regulatory and economic barriers to renewable energy projects; the reduction, elimination or expiration of government incentives for, or regulations mandating the use of, renewable energy; our ability to effectively manage our supply chain and comply with applicable regulations with respect to international trade relations, tariffs, sanctions, export controls and anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws; our ability to effectively comply with Environmental Health and Safety and other laws and regulations and receive and maintain all necessary licenses, permits and authorizations; our performance of various obligations under the terms of our indebtedness (and the indebtedness of our subsidiaries that we guarantee) and our ability to continue to secure project financing on attractive terms for our projects; limitations on our management rights and operational flexibility due to our use of tax equity arrangements; potential claims and disagreements with partners, investors and other counterparties that could reduce our right to cash flows generated by our projects; our ability to comply with tax laws of various jurisdictions in which we currently operate as well as the tax laws in jurisdictions in which we intend to operate in the future; the unknown effect of the dual listing of our ordinary shares on the price of our ordinary shares; various risks related to our incorporation and location in Israel; the costs and requirements of being a public company, including the diversion of management’s attention with respect to such requirements; certain provisions in our Articles of Association and certain applicable regulations that may delay or prevent a change of control; and other risk factors set forth in the section titled “Risk factors” in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and our other documents filed with or furnished to the SEC.

    These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as may be required by applicable law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Equinor (OSE: EQNR, NYSE: EQNR) suspends offshore construction activities for the Empire Wind project

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    In accordance with a halt work order issued by the US government, Empire Offshore Wind LLC (Empire) will safely halt the offshore construction in waters of the outer continental shelf for the Empire Wind project.

    On 16 April, Empire received notice from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), ordering Empire to halt all activities on the outer continental shelf until BOEM has completed its review.

    Empire is engaging with relevant authorities to clarify this matter and is considering its legal remedies, including appealing the order.

    The federal lease for Empire Wind was signed with the US Administration in 2017. Empire Wind 1 has validly secured all necessary federal and state permits and is currently under construction. The project is being developed under contract with New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to provide an important new source of electricity for the State of New York. The construction phase has put more than 1,500 people to work in the US. Empire wind 1 has the potential to power 500,000 New York homes.

    Empire is complying with the order affecting project activities for Empire Wind. Upon receipt of the order, immediate steps were taken by Empire and its contractors to initiate suspension of relevant marine activities, ensuring the safety of workers and the environment.

    Empire Wind has per 31 March 2025 a gross book value of around USD 2.5 billion, including South Brooklyn Marine Terminal.

    Equinor’s ownership to Empire is held through the Equinor Wind US LLC.

    Total amount drawn under the project finance term loan facility per 31 March 2025 was around USD 1.5 billion. Empire is in the process of ascertaining the impact on the project and project financing. Equinor US Holdings Inc has provided guarantees for the equity commitment in the project financing. In a full stop scenario, the USD 1.5 billion will be repaid from the equity commitment to the project finance lenders and Empire Offshore Wind LLC will be exposed to termination fees towards its suppliers.

    The halt work order will be disclosed as a subsequent event in the first quarter 2025 report.

    Equinor is a broad energy company with more than 35 years of history in the US. Equinor has invested more than 60 billion USD in the US to date, including in oil, gas and renewables.

    Contact persons:

    Investor relations:
    Bård Glad Pedersen, Senior vice president Investor Relations,
    +47 918 01 791

    Media relations:
    Sissel Rinde, Vice president Media Relations,
    +47 412 60 584

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The UK is deeply concerned by the destabilising activities of Libyan security actors and armed groups: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    The UK is deeply concerned by the destabilising activities of Libyan security actors and armed groups: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Libya.

    President I would like to make three points.

    First, Libya’s economic trajectory is alarming. 

    With no unified budget and, as SRSG Tetteh said, no oversight, present levels of public spending by Libyan authorities risk rapidly diminishing the nation’s wealth.

    Competition for state resources is putting Libya’s institutions under grave pressure, and risks fuelling renewed conflict.

    Libya has the resources to build a prosperous future. But to achieve it, Libya’s leaders must put aside narrow interests and agree on a unified economic framework in the national interest. 

    We welcome the return of the World Bank to Tripoli to support this work.

    Second, the UK is deeply concerned by the destabilising activities of Libyan security actors and armed groups. 

    This includes reports of unlawful and arbitrary detentions, kidnappings, imprisonment without due process and assassination attempts. 

    There needs to be accountability for such acts, to support civic space and trust in Libya’s law enforcement.

    The recent closure of humanitarian organisations’ offices and detention of their employees is particularly troubling. 

    We urge Libyan authorities to work with international NGOs and resolve differences through dialogue. 

    Humanitarian organisations are an indispensable part of our collective efforts to support Libya, including to help address the Libyan authority’s concerns about illegal migration.

    Third, Libya’s economic and security challenges underscore the urgent need for progress on the political track. 

    Libya needs a comprehensive, inclusive political process which will provide the foundation for sound economic governance, rule of law and accountability, and help tackle corruption.

    The UK strongly supports UNSMIL’s efforts and commends SRSG Tetteh for her leadership. 

    A revitalised political process, flowing from the Advisory Committee’s deliberations, presents a real opportunity to chart a path towards the peace, stability and prosperity that the Libyan people deserve and yearn for, as I heard during my own visit to Libya and in more recent exchanges with young Libyans. 

    So we urge all Libyan actors to engage constructively with the UN’s efforts and the Advisory Committee’s recommendations.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Group to review investigation reports

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Chief Executive has instructed the Chief Secretary to lead a working group that will conduct in-depth reviews of the direct investigation reports occasionally issued by the Office of the Ombudsman, the Government announced today.

     

    It said this is to ensure that all heads of government departments proactively follow up on the recommendations arising from investigations, strengthen departmental management systems, and reinforce performance accountability among managerial staff.

     

    Regarding a report released yesterday by the Office of the Ombudsman on its direct investigation into the government’s occupational safety and health (OSH) regulations relating to the construction industry, the Chief Secretary will meet the Ombudsman Jack Chan to discuss the investigation’s findings in depth.

     

    The working group will aim to obtain a thorough understanding of the bottlenecks and core issues relating to OSH regulation in the industry, and will apply its finding in the establishment of relevant departmental management systems.

     

    The Development Bureau, the Labour Department and the Buildings Departments are meticulously examining and studying the Ombudsman’s report and following up on its recommendations.

     

    Additionally, the Labour Department has referred suspected criminal fraudulent acts discovered in the investigation to law enforcement agencies.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Congo Energy & Investment Forum Returns to Brazzaville in March 2026

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo, April 17, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Republic of Congo will host the second edition of the Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) from March 10-12, 2026. As the country gears up for a significant increase in its oil output over the next three years and plans to strengthen its position in the natural gas sector, CEIF – under the theme Invest. Build. Empower: Transforming Congo’s Energy Landscape – underscores Congo’s growing role in the global energy landscape.

    The 2025-2026 period promises to be an exciting time for Congo’s energy sector. Set to begin operations by December 2025, Phase 2 of the Congo LNG project will enable energy major Eni to increase gas production from 0.6 million tons per annum (mtpa) to 3 mtpa. Meanwhile, the Fouta refinery construction project is expected to start up by the end of the year and is set to produce 2.5 million tons of petroleum products per year – including diesel and gasoline – upon commissioning. These developments highlight the commitment of major operators to position Congo as a global oil and gas producer, with upcoming regulation and investments further supporting this goal.

    In the gas sector, the country is targeting 3 million tons of LNG per year by this year from Eni’s Marine XII development – featuring the Congo LNG project. This target comes on the heels of Congo’s February 2024 milestone where the country exported its first LNG cargo from the Tango FLNG facility. The Republic of Congo boasts over 10 trillion cubic feet of proven natural gas resources and is set to unveil its Gas Master Plan, launch a National Gas Company and release a new Gas Code this year.

    Driven by a series of landmark projects spearheaded by industry giants including TotalEnergies, Trident Energy and Perenco, Congo aims to nearly double oil output from the current 280,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 500,000 bpd by 2027. With aims to harness untapped reserves and maximize the potential of existing assets, this strategy will focus on expanding production in both new and mature fields. To support this goal, the country is set to launch a new international oil and gas licensing round this year. This initiative is expected to usher in a new wave of investment in sub-Saharan Africa’s third-largest oil producing market. The licensing round is designed to attract international oil companies with technical expertise and financial capacity to develop deepwater resources, as well as local and independent companies to exploit marginal fields.

    At CEIF 2025, Congo unveiled plans to double its power generation capacity to 1,500 MW by 2030, with a strong focus on renewable energy projects. The country holds an estimated hydropower potential of 27,000 MW, though only 1% of this resource has been developed. As such, the government has identified several key projects, including water diversion and storage techniques, to maximize hydropower output.

    Through a series of dedicated panel sessions, technical workshops and presentations at CEIF 2026, the event will provide an in-depth look at Congo’s investment landscape. The conference will highlight crucial developments across the country’s energy sector as well as the broader strategic importance of Congo’s energy ambitions.

    “CEIF 2026 serves as a vital platform to showcase Congo’s dynamic energy transformation. As the country scales up oil and gas production and prioritizes renewables, the conference fosters meaningful dialogue, attracts investment and strengthens partnerships essential to unlocking the full potential of Congo’s evolving energy and investment landscape,” states Sandra Jeque, Events and Project Director at Energy Capital & Power.

    Supported by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and national oil company Société nationale des pétroles du Congo, CEIF 2026 will bring together local, regional and international delegates to explore new partnership opportunities across the energy and investments sectors. This highly anticipated event builds on the success of the inaugural edition, which convened government officials, top investors, IOCs, NOCs, independents and industry experts who shared vital insights into Congo’s oil, gas and energy landscape – paving the way for expanded collaboration and professional networking in 2026.

    For more information and to register your interest for CEIF 2026, please visit www.CongoEnergyInvestment.com

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dangerous driver who killed passenger has sentence increased following intervention by Solicitor General

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Dangerous driver who killed passenger has sentence increased following intervention by Solicitor General

    A dangerous driver who killed a teenage passenger and hospitalised another after driving at double the speed limit has had his sentence increased after Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP intervened.

    Adam Ali, 20, from Manchester, has had his sentence increased by more than two years by the Court of Appeal after it was referred under the Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme.

    The court heard that on the evening of 15 October 2022, Ali drove dangerously with three passengers in the car having passed his test a few months earlier.

    Ali drove through a residential area in wet conditions, in excess of 60mph in an area with a 30mph speed limit. However, he lost control of the car and smashed it into a lamp post.

    Ben Burbridge, a 16-year-old passenger in the back of the car, was pronounced dead at the scene after suffering catastrophic brain injuries.

    Justin Saidi, who was 17 at the time, was hospitalised after he suffered multiple injuries including a collapsed lung, bleeding between his lung and ribcage and fractured ribs and shoulders.

    The court heard that Ali had previously been caught speeding and misusing his car horn, and the fatal accident occurred while he was waiting for his speed awareness course to start.

    While awaiting trial, Ali was caught speeding on two further occasions and later caused another road accident while banned from driving – all while inhaling a nitrous oxide canister at the wheel.

    The Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:

    Ben Burbridge was only 16 years old when he died and he had his whole future ahead of him. His life was tragically cut short by Adam Ali’s dangerous driving.

    I welcome the court’s decision to increase Ali’s sentence following my referral. This government is committed to ensuring those who drive dangerously are punished appropriately.

    On 27 January 2025, Adam Ali was sentenced to 4 years detention for one count of death by dangerous driving and another for causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

    On 15 April 2025, this sentence was quashed and substituted with a new sentence of 6 years and 4 months detention after it was referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Man who stabbed two strangers has sentence more than doubled after intervention by the Solicitor General

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Man who stabbed two strangers has sentence more than doubled after intervention by the Solicitor General

    A man who stabbed two people with a kitchen knife has his sentence increased to a decade after it was referred under the Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme to the Court of Appeal by Solicitor General, Lucy Rigby KC MP.

    Ismail Uradde, 36, from East Ham, London, has had his sentence increased after an intervention under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme by the Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP.

    The court heard that in the early morning of 26 July 2024, Uradde confronted two men outside his block of flats, accusing them of making a disturbance.

    Brandishing a knife, Uradde confronted and proceeded to attack the men. Uradde stabbed one of them twice in his left thigh and stabbed the other man in the arm, leaving a deep wound.

    Uradde then fled the scene, handing his knife over to a convenience store shopkeeper. The victims suffered significant blood loss but both men survived.

    In court, one of the victims remarked on the impact of the attack, stating he still has “difficulty sleeping” and feels unsafe outside as he fears “he could be attacked again”.

    The Solicitor General, Lucy Rigby KC MP said:

    Ismail Uradde’s violent and unprovoked attack on the two victims was shocking. I welcome the Court of Appeal’s decision to more than double his sentence.

    My thoughts are with the two victims of Uradde’s attack.

    On 20 January 2025, Ismail Uradde was sentenced to three years and eight months’ imprisonment for two counts of wounding with intent and one count of having a bladed article.

    On 15 April 2025, his sentence was increased to a decade after a referral to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four Sentenced for Roles in Morgantown-Area Drug Trafficking Operation

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Four people were sentenced for their involvement in a drug trafficking organization that stretched from Philadelphia to Detroit to Morgantown, West Virginia.

    Those sentenced today were:

    • Charles Johnson, 33, of Detroit, Michigan, sentenced today to 96 months in federal prison;
    • Sandra Tennant, 55, of Morgantown, West Virginia, sentenced to 51 months;
    • Stephanie Miller, 48, of Charleston, West Virginia, sentenced to 84 months in federal prison; and
    • Jordan Spadafore, 34, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced to five years of probation.

    According to court documents, Johnson, Tennant, Miller, and Spadafore were distributors for the operation that was selling methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.

    This case was investigated by the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. The task force consists of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the West Virginia State Police; the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office; the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; the Morgantown Police Department; the WVU Police Department; the Granville Police Department; and the Star City Police Department.

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: MultiCorp International, Inc. Announces that Strategic Partner Neoforma, Inc. has received $2 Billion Credit Transfer Receipt per April 14, 2025 press release announcing Quadrpartitie Agreement.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AGOURA HILLS, CALIFORNIA, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MultiCorp International, Inc. (OTC Markets PINK: MCIC) Multicorp International, Inc. is pleased to announce that Neoforma Inc. has received the $2,000,000,000 credit transfer receipt from Airavata Developers Corporation’s top 10 European Bank this morning.

    Multicorp International, Inc.’s alliance with 40 Brightwater LLC’s Global Financial Consortium inclusive of Neoforma Inc. and now Airavata Developers Corporation has expanded immediate access to greater liquidity, which will be added to the previously announced financings from Edwards Capital N.A. correspondent bank.

    In turn, Neoforma Inc. will provide a line of credit to MultiCorp International, Inc. in an amount of up to $1,800,000,000 (one billion eight hundred million USD), to be utilized to execute all transactions previously announced with Global X Cryptocurrency Stablecoin Tokens (GBP-pegged), Bitcoin, and gold-backed Cryptocurrency Tokens, as well as to perfect the newly-targeted acquisition of a mineral property in Michigan and to cover all required corporate expenditures.

    About MultiCorp International, Inc. :

    (https://multicorpinternational.com/)

    MultiCorp International, Inc., a diversified leader in health, energy, and agriculture, announces a series of strategic initiatives aimed at accelerating its growth and expanding its market presence. The company is actively pursuing joint ventures and acquisitions, is fortifying its organizational infrastructure, and is preparing for significant advancements in the stock market.

    About Neoforma Inc. :

    www.neoforma.co

    Neoforma Inc. is a Minnesota based privately held corporation and a global leader in Software & Technology. The company has now diversified into International finance including private equity and has operations globally, including India, the UAE, the UK, Mexico and the United States and serves clients globally. Its client base includes numerous global corporations as well as government entities.

    About Airavata Developers Corporation:

    Airavata-corp.com

    Airavata Developers Corporation is a prominent international construction firm that has carved a niche for itself in the design and construction of commercial and industrial infrastructure. With a commitment to excellence, we specialize in a wide array of services that encompass every phase of the construction process, including comprehensive pre-construction planning, meticulous project management, and effective general contracting. Each of these services is tailored to meet the specific needs and demands of our diverse clientele, ensuring that we not only meet but exceed their expectations.

    At the helm of our organization are the highly respected Principal Partners, Alan Khara, who serves as the Chief Executive Director and Chairman, and David D. Brannon, the Executive Financial Director. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the company. Their unwavering dedication extends beyond just business; they are passionately committed to fostering community excellence. This commitment is demonstrated through substantial efforts in promoting global economic development while simultaneously focusing on job creation within the communities we operate. Their leadership style emphasizes ethical practices, innovative thinking, and a deep responsibility toward societal well-being.

    Airavata Developers Corporation has set forth an ambitious goal: to emerge as the global leader within this ever-evolving and dynamic construction industry. To achieve this vision, we place a strong emphasis on delivering exceptional service that stands out in a competitive marketplace. This is complemented by our proactive approach in integrating cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art materials into our projects. By continually investing in the latest advancements in construction techniques and environmental sustainability, we ensure that our infrastructure not only meets current industry standards but also anticipates future demands.

    Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation drives every project we undertake, ensuring that we consistently remain at the forefront of industry trends and client expectations.

    David Brannon Chief Financial Director/ Partner

    About 40 Brightwater LLC:

    40 Brightwater LLC is a private holding company focusing specifically on acquiring private entities and merging its holdings with public companies by leveraging its financial network and resources through its Managing Member, President & CEO Shannon Newby.

    Disclaimer: This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or solicit an offer to buy, nor will there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction where such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful before registration or qualification under applicable securities laws. Any offer will be made only through a prospectus supplement and accompanying base prospectus as part of an effective registration statement.

    Contact Information: J. A. Coleman, J.a.coleman1512@gmail.com.

    This press release is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice or a solicitation to purchase securities. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. These statements are based on current expectations and could differ materially from actual events

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Attends Event in Sherbrooke Celebrating Cooperation Between U.S. and Canada on Semiconductor Innovation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    SHERBROOKE, QC – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) traveled to Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada this week for an event celebrating semiconductor innovation and collaboration between Quebec and the Northeastern United States. Senator Welch joined the ribbon cutting for an expansion of the Interdisciplinary Institute for Technological Innovation (3IT) at the University of Sherbrooke.  
    “It is inspiring to see a strong commitment to innovation, collaboration, and cooperation,” said Senator Welch. “I’m committed, as a Vermonter and as a United States Senator, to sustaining what so many before us have built—a level of trust that is essential to creating a future that includes good jobs and advances in science—in Vermont and in Canada.” 
    Senator Welch joined students, staff, and leadership of the University of Sherbrooke, Members of the Quebec National Assembly, the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development, and representatives from the University of Vermont. 
    “The Université de Sherbrooke generates annual spinoffs of over $1.1 billion for Sherbrooke and the surrounding area, while 3IT plays a first-tier role in the technological development of the region and of Québec and Canada. This Institute is at the core of the digital and quantum Integrated Innovation Chain, which acts as a bridge between fundamental research and commercialization. In addition to contributing to research and training, these new facilities will enhance synergy with the Institut quantique, with the MiQro Innovation Collaborative Centre (C2MI) in Bromont, and with companies that work in our two innovation zones (DistriQ and Technum Québec),” said Pierre Cossette, Rector of the Université de Sherbrooke. 
    “This expansion marks an important milestone in 3IT’s development, as it has considerably expanded the Institute’s holdings of advanced micro-nanofabrication equipment to support industrial innovation. With these new facilities, 3IT has bolstered its world-class research activities, which will attract the best talent to develop technological solutions that meet our society’s needs,” said Paul Charette, Director of 3IT. 
    “In these uncertain times, local innovation must be stimulated. We must also diversify and develop new markets. This is why it is essential for us to support our university network and its researchers. They are one of the best tools we have to rise above the rest in these fields. Thank you and congratulations to everyone who worked on this amazing project,” said Pascale Déry, Minister of Higher Education. 
    “The current geopolitical context impels us to invest in expansions like the one at 3IT to strengthen our capacity for innovation and competitiveness both here and internationally. Here in the Eastern Townships is where the next breakthroughs in quantum science, photonics, and biomedical technologies are coming together,” said Christopher Skeete, Minister for the Economy, Minister Responsible for the Fight Against Racism, and Minister Responsible for the Laval Region. 
    “At 3IT, ideas take shape and create vectors for growth for all of Québec. This expansion will also boost our ability to innovate here in Sherbrooke and turn today’s discoveries into tomorrow’s concrete solutions. Here, we are inventing the technologies that will reshape how we experience, care for, and connect with the world,” said Geneviève Hébert, MNA for Saint-François and Assistant Government Whip. 
    View photos from the event below: 
    In January, Vermont signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with organizations in Vermont and Québec, including the University of Vermont and the University of Sherbrooke, which aims to establish a hub for innovation and advanced manufacturing, called the Northeast Semiconductor Manufacturing Corridor. The MOU is focused on several key areas of understanding, including the shared goals of developing resilient supply chains for uninterrupted access to critical components, and mitigating trade barriers by enacting mutually beneficial policies across the border.  
    Senator Welch has been a longtime supporter of semiconductor and chips innovation. The Senator helped pass the CHIPS and Science Act as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. The CHIPS and Science Act includes landmark investments to support domestic semiconductor and chip manufacturing research and development; bolster the STEM workforce; strengthen our 21st Century security, tech defense, and wireless supply chains; and advance innovation in the advanced manufacturing industry.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke secures government approval to publish the Short Term Letting and Tourism Bill General Scheme

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    17th April 2025

    Minister James Browne to publish new planning guidance

    Minister Peter Burke has today secured Cabinet approval to publish the General Scheme of the new Short Term Letting and Tourism (STLT) Bill. The legislation will introduce a register for all Short Term Lets (STLs) in Ireland, which will be implemented and managed by Fáilte Ireland from 20 May 2026, ensuring compliance with the new EU Short Term Rental Regulation which was adopted by the EU on 11 April 2024.

    Minister for Housing James Browne has also secured approval from government to publish a National Planning Statement on Short Term Letting, in order to give greater clarity to the sector with regards planning in advance of the commencement of the new legislation.

    Minister Burke said:

     “This is a very important piece of legislation that will enable the introduction of new regulatory controls for the Short-Term Letting sector. The self-catering and wider short-term letting sector is an important element of the Irish tourism ecosystem and for the first time, we will have up to date and accurate data on the numbers and spread of this accommodation.

    “Tourism is of critical importance to the Irish economy, providing 228,000 jobs and €6 billion income to our economy in 2024. The long-term development of the tourism sector requires that an appropriate balance is achieved between the short-term letting sector and long-term housing market, and the wider needs of local communities, both economically and socially.”

    Minister Burke went on to say:

    “I am aware of the genuine concerns regarding the impacts on rural tourism and local economies of removing a significant cohort of STL properties from the tourism and other short-term letting market and I continue to engage with the sector in this regard. However, meeting local housing need across Ireland is a critically important consideration and government must use every lever available to assist in providing homes for our people.”

    The new STL register will be available online and will provide a full picture of the stock of registered tourist accommodation across the state. Hosts offering STL accommodation for periods up to and including 21 nights will be obliged to register with Fáilte Ireland and hold a valid registration number that must be displayed when advertising their STL property.

    The EU STR Regulation and Ireland’s new registration requirements for STLs will both come into full force on 20 May 2026. Fáilte Ireland will apply the enforcement mechanisms provided for in the legislation in respect of non-compliant STL hosts by means of Fixed Payment Notices and/or summary proceedings in the District Court.

    The STLT Bill also provides for the introduction of an administrative sanction procedure (ASP) for infringements by online short-term rental platforms of their obligations under the STR Regulation. This will enable the State to impose large financial penalties (a maximum of 2% of turnover) to enforce compliance where necessary.

    Minister Burke will appoint an independent panel to determine the level of financial sanction to be imposed.

    The Cabinet also approved, for the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, the drafting of new planning guidance and any necessary legislative changes to implement the new Planning Guidelines in the form of a National Planning Statement on short-term letting. That Planning Statement is an important input in balancing local housing, tourism and economic needs and will provide the necessary clarity to the STL sector on the planning requirements around STL properties. The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage will publish these guidelines in advance of the final enactment of the STLT Bill.

    Minister Browne said:

    “In advance of commencement of the legislation, I will be publishing new planning guidance to give greater clarity to the short term letting sector and to allow those in tourism to plan accordingly. This guidance will seek to recognise the needs of tourism and those who visit Ireland, while also acting on the urgent aim of this government to increase domestic rental supply.”

    This new housing policy is to generally preclude new planning permissions for short term lets in cities and towns with a census population in excess of 10,000 persons, or as may be set by regulations, and to enable local authorities have discretion to develop policies for other locations having regard to relevant local criteria to be set out in the guidance.

    At present, all STL properties with the exception of your principal private residence (PPR) based in rent pressure zones are required to have appropriate planning permission. If you rent out a room in your PPR, planning permission is generally not required, however if you rent out the entire PPR property for more than 90 days planning permission is necessary.

    Minister Burke and his department will consider the full implications for the tourism sector as we await the planning clarification from the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

    ENDS

    Back to Department News

    Back to Top

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Violence should never be part of the shift

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    When CJ worked in a patient-facing role, it was common for staff to accept occupational violence as just part of the job.

    Everyone has a role to play in creating a safe public health care setting.

    Nurses make up half of the healthcare workforce, with roles in clinical care, leadership, education, and research. It is without question that nurses are pivotal to the healthcare system and wellbeing of communities.

    Of course, when you’re a nurse, there are plenty of not-so-pleasant things you may encounter during a shift. From blood and other bodily fluids to challenging conversations, and an entire range of germs – it all comes with the job of helping people and making a positive difference to the health of others and the broader community.

    But there’s something else nurses are likely to encounter in a shift that should not be a part of the job: violence and unacceptable behaviours. It was when working in different settings, such as on the ward, the emergency department, and outpatients that CJ* really witnessed and experienced it first-hand.

    “It happens every day. Some members of the public might think violence is typically perpetrated by people who are intoxicated, or it is related to mental health. But the truth is, what we see is that perpetrators of occupational violence and unacceptable behaviours can be anyone,” she said.

    The violence not only comes from the patients, but can come from relatives, carers, partners, visitors and other members of the public who engage with the health service. And it’s not always as clear cut and obvious as physical assault or verbal abuse.

    Occupational violence also includes unacceptable behaviours such as snide comments, undermining and gaslighting, sexism, racism, sexually inappropriate behaviours, intimidation, and discrimination. It can also take the form of defamatory comments on social media, or filming staff without their consent.

    “I have brown skin and I have an Asian background and I’ve had people ask for a white nurse. Another example – people try to pretend they can’t understand what I’m saying, when you know that they can understand,” says CJ.

    “Verbal aggression and inappropriate behaviours are more common than physical assault, and they’re just as hurtful and detrimental to our wellbeing.”

    Everyone has a role to play in creating a safe and positive health care setting. This includes nursing and clinical staff, and patients and members of the public being kind and respectful when communicating.

    “I always try to do my best to deliver quality care in an imperfect system, but sometimes, I just felt like it’s not enough,” says CJ.

    “Say you look after five people, and four people you had positive interactions with, and they were thankful. But then all it takes is that one person to make an awful comment. For some reason, it’s always the negative comment that would stick with me.”

    CJ says when she worked in a patient-facing role, it was common for staff to accept that occupational violence was just part of the job, and nurses didn’t always speak up. CJ’s passion for trying to shift this culture and make a positive change to violence against health workers led her to complete a PhD in the area, with a focus on preventing occupational violence in emergency departments.

    She is now Director of Occupational Violence Prevention and Management for Canberra Health Services and is working hard to effect change in the industry and be part of the solution.

    “In our research, we found that nurses want a comprehensive strategy to feel safer at work. For example, a good strategy should at least strive to identify and meet patients’ health needs, have education and training for nurses, include a team response to occupational violence, and ensure that nurses are supported to recover from incidents if they occur. This is what we are actively working on at Canberra Health Services, and I’m happy to be a part of it.”

    She closely consults and collaborates with health workers, managers and agencies in patient-facing roles to ensure everyone feels supported and safe to report incidents, and that appropriate action is taken to prevent incidents. She also works to influence policies and procedures to help prevent incidents happening in the future and to reduce the harmful impacts of occupational violence on nurses. This work contributes to the Towards a Safer Culture ‘The Next Steps’ Strategy – a government funded initiative supporting the fundamental rights of nurses and midwives working in ACT public health services to be safe and protected in their workplaces.

    “I really try to be the support that I wished for when I was facing violence and unacceptable behaviours as a nurse,” says CJ.

    “What I would also like to tell other nurses is that their safety is just as important as patient safety! Don’t be afraid to call out violence and unacceptable behaviours. And don’t be afraid to report incidents, as each report helps us to better manage these risks and make decisions on what is best and safest for both patients and health care workers”.

    * For personal privacy, surnames of interviewees have been removed.

    Find out more about how you can help make ACT Government workplaces safe for everyone.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Lee Returns from Congressional Delegation to Denmark, Estonia, and Finland

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

    Senator Lee and Senator R. Scott following their meeting with Jonatan Vseviov,
    Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Estonia 
    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee recently returned from a congressional delegation to Denmark, Estonia, and Finland with Senator Rick Scott (R-FL). They met with senior government officials to discuss shared military and national security priorities. As a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Multilateral International Development, Multilateral Institutions, and International Economic, Energy, and Environmental Policy, Senator Lee shares the Trump Administration’s goal of peace through strength.
    Of the trip, Senator Mike Lee said:
    “I enjoyed the opportunity to visit Denmark, Estonia, and Finland with my friend, Senator Rick Scott. Our meetings with government, military, and shipbuilding industry leaders, including Ministers of Defense, Ministers of Foreign Affairs, and legislators were productive. I walk away from this trip with a deeper understanding of the issues facing the region, as well as the regulatory burdens shipbuilders face. While abroad, I also had the distinct privilege to meet with U.S. service members, including one Utahn, at Tapa Army Base in Estonia, to discuss the Baltic region.
    The nations I visited are United States allies who have made good on their commitments and have a shared focus on enhancing regional partnerships for shipbuilding and national security. It was an honor to represent Utah overseas, and upon returning home, it is clear to me that the United States is once again respected on the world stage.”

    Senator Lee meets with U.S. service members
    at Tapa Army Base in Estonia 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Latest council position on industrial action by Unite

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Published: Thursday, 17th April 2025

    Council leader Cllr John Cotton today met local government minister Jim McMahon and updated him on the bin strike and clean up.

    Cllr John Cotton, leader of Birmingham City Council said: 

    “Our door remains open for further talks. However, to make progress Unite must accept reality. We will not be able to make progress until Unite accepts that the WRCO role cannot be brought back, and that the council cannot and will not entertain anything that would re-open an equal pay liability.

    “That wouldn’t be fair for residents or workers and is a red line for Birmingham City Council. We are open to good faith negotiations on the basis of the fair and reasonable offer on the table.

    “In the meantime, we are making good progress in clearing up the backlog of waste.”

    Background –

    Information on WRCO role –

    The WRCO role, which Unite is fighting to keep, came about as a result of a previous bin strike. No other council has this role, and if the council gave in, then we would risk creating a huge future equal pay liability.

    More than 50 councils around the country operate with a system of one driver and two loaders. Regarding health and safety, the whole team is accountable for working in a safe and responsible way. None of the roles either past or present make any specific reference to there being a lead person responsible for health and safety.

    Driver role –

    As Unite are aware, we are currently undertaking a fair and transparent job evaluation process of the driver/team leader role, working with all trade union partners to ensure a fair outcome.

    It’s important to stress that roles are evaluated using the nationally recognised Gauge Job Evaluation methodology – as agreed with our trade unions.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Site checks after suspension notice served

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Site checks after suspension notice served

    Environment Agency officers, together with West Yorkshire Police, have been undertaking site checks at the Mineral Processing Ltd site.

    Environment Agency and West Yorkshire Police Officers

    The Environment Agency joined forces with the police this week to carry out checks outside a waste site that is subject to a suspension notice in West Yorkshire.

    The suspension notice served on Mineral Processing Ltd in South Elmsall means the environmental permit does not currently authorise waste being brought on to the site.

    The notice also requires the staged removal of waste that had been brought onto the site by the operator in breach of its environmental permit conditions.

    The breaches of the environmental permit result in an increased risk of pollution, including the potential for odour, which has been impacting on the local community over recent months.

    This week Environment Agency officers, together with West Yorkshire Police, followed up on concerns raised by the community about vehicles still arriving at the site while the suspension notice is in force.

    The operation was to monitor vehicle movements to and from the site. While none arrived while partners were present, the Environment Agency will continue to act upon the information it receives.

    The notice does not prevent non-waste products being imported.

    An Environment Agency spokesperson said:

    We understand the impact the odour from this site is having on the community and our increased regulatory response continues.

    This includes ongoing odour monitoring and regular site inspections, as well as action to proactively monitor vehicle movements at the site while the suspension notice is in force.

    During our inspections of the site breaches of the environmental permit conditions and suspension notice have been identified, and we are assessing all our enforcement options.

    Mineral Processing Ltd has appealed the suspension notice via the Planning Inspectorate. The appeal decision has not been issued to date. The suspension notice remains in force while the Environment Agency waits for this decision.

    If an operator does not comply with a suspension notice then it is committing an offence. This is the case even if it has submitted an appeal against the notice.

    To build a detailed picture of air quality around the site the Environment Agency is using a handheld gas analyser, which monitors for hydrogen sulphide, and installed a Mobile Monitoring facility (MMF) nearby, which will be in situ for four months.

    It’s also working with Wakefield Council – which is responsible for making sure planning conditions are complied with – to ensure that joint regulatory powers are used to bring about improvements.

    Odour issues should be reported to the Environment Agency’s 24-hour Incident hotline on 0800 807060. To protect the safety and wellbeing of the public and ensure timely capture of information, any other information relating to the site should be reported to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via or via or via crimestoppers-org.uk using the “Environmental Crime” tag.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE arrests Honduran alien convicted of sex offense

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BALTIMORE — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Kelvin Emanuel Granados-Sorto, 30, an illegal alien and Honduran citizen April 11 after he was transferred to ICE custody by the Maryland Department of Corrections. Granados has been convicted of a third-degree sex offense.

    “This arrest sends a clear message: when jurisdictions cooperate with ICE, communities are safer,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Baltimore acting Field Office Director Nikita Baker. “A criminal alien sex-offender was taken into ICE custody because law enforcement worked together. Today, there is one less predator in our neighborhoods and one less victim tomorrow. This is what public safety looks like when we prioritize the protection of our communities over politics.”

    Granados entered the United States on an unknown date at an unknown location and without inspection, admission, or parole by an immigration official.

    The Circuit Court for Prince George’s County convicted Granados May 12, 2023, of a sex offense and sentenced him to 10 years in prison. ICE lodged an immigration detainer against Granados with the Maryland Department of Corrections July 12, 2023.

    A Department of Justice immigration judge ordered Granados removed from the United States to Honduras Oct. 24, 2023. Granados remains in ICE custody pending his removal.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X at @EROBaltimore.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Remembering April 18-19, 2020

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    NOTE: The following is a statement from Premier Tim Houston.

    This week marks five years since the events of April 18-19, 2020. As each day, month and year passes, we continue to reflect and remember those lost, and we continue to support survivors.

    These events were deeply felt by all Nova Scotians, but no one can truly understand the depth of the loss for those most impacted.

    To the families, survivors and communities – I want you to know that Nova Scotians continue to have you all in our thoughts and close to our hearts.

    I continue to be inspired by your courage and your strength. Know that we stand with you today and every day. We remain Nova Scotia Strong.

    We will continue to work with municipalities, the federal government and the RCMP to make our communities safer. We are unwavering in our commitment to make real change.

    To all Nova Scotians – I encourage you to observe a moment of silence at noon on April 18 and April 19. I also ask that you continue to be compassionate and supportive during this difficult time, honouring the privacy of the families and communities impacted and giving them space to grieve, reflect and remember.

    Remembering and reflecting on the events of April 2020 may affect Nova Scotians in different ways. If you are struggling and need support, the provincial mental health crisis line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-888-429-8167.

    The flags at Province House and all provincial government buildings and institutions will fly at half-mast on these days. I encourage citizens, businesses and community organizations that fly flags to join us.

    We will never forget:

    Tom Bagley

    Kristen Beaton and her unborn child

    Greg Blair

    Jamie Blair

    Joy Bond

    Peter Bond

    Lillian Campbell

    Corrie Ellison

    Gina Goulet

    Dawn Gulenchyn

    Frank Gulenchyn

    Alanna Jenkins

    Sean McLeod

    Lisa McCully

    Heather O’Brien

    Jolene Oliver

    Aaron Tuck

    Emily Tuck

    Const. Heidi Stevenson

    E. Joanne Thomas

    John Zahl

    Joey Webber

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: ROTH Conference Celebrates 25 Years in Dana Point with Unforgettable Community Partnerships and Recognition

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via IBN — The 37th Annual ROTH Conference welcomed thousands of participants from around the globe to Dana Point, California, where the event has been proudly hosted for the past 25 years. This year marked more than just another successful gathering of institutional investors, company executives, and industry visionaries. It was also a milestone in Roth Capital Partners, LLC’s (ROTH) enduring commitment to the local community that has helped shape the event’s identity over the last quarter-century.

    One of the most meaningful moments of the conference took place on March 17, when the City of Dana Point formally recognized Bryon Roth, Ted Roth, and Gordon Roth for their 25-year contribution to the city’s cultural, economic, and philanthropic landscape. The recognition ceremony, coordinated by the Eco Yacht Group in collaboration with Dana Point officials, brought together mayors, community leaders, nonprofit founders, and ROTH team members to celebrate the positive local impact made possible by this long-standing partnership. Mayor Matthew Pagano and Mayor Pro Tem John Gabbard presented official certificates of recognition, applauding the Roth family’s dedication to fostering opportunity, economic development, and charitable contributions since the conference began its residency in Dana Point.

    The honorees received custom gift baskets curated with premium items from local and sponsor partners including El Septimo cigars and cognac, Kindred Wines, Hook Hand Rum, Perduret Champagne, Once Upon A Coconut premium beverages, and several other thoughtful tokens of appreciation that reflect both the spirit of Dana Point and the caliber of the “ROTH Experience”.

    Throughout the weekend, the conference’s connection to the Dana Point community was woven into a number of thoughtfully planned experiences. In partnership with the City of Dana Point, Visit Dana Point, the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, and local businesses such as the Dana Cliffs Marriott, attendees were welcomed not just as guests, but as contributors to a shared community story. ROTH worked with a local artist to create a custom welcome card that was placed in each hotel room, offering a heartfelt introduction to Dana Point’s coastal heritage and creative spirit. A Dana Point Heritage Walk, held in conjunction with the Challenged Athletes Foundation charity event, gave guests the chance to explore the town’s cultural and historical landmarks while engaging directly with local partners.

    The spirit of giving was further highlighted through support of the California Love Drop initiative, which provides meals and supplies to first responders and communities affected by California wildfires. ROTH’s support of this initiative was represented by longtime partner Wing Lam, founder of Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, and exemplifies the company’s ongoing dedication to social impact initiatives that extend far beyond the financial sector.

    Two signature gatherings helped deepen the sense of connection between conference attendees and community leaders. The Eco Yacht Group’s VIP “Tide to Table” Dinner at Glasspar Seafood & Steakhouse and the Tide to Table Yacht Luncheon in Dana Point Harbor brought together a diverse group of innovators, creatives, ocean conservationists, and executives. These experiences were supported by local sponsors including Once Upon A Coconut, Luxicon, and Stillwater Spirits & Sounds. Guests enjoyed meaningful conversations around sustainability, entrepreneurship, and shared responsibility in a setting that was both elegant and grounded in community values.

    Among the many distinguished guests in attendance were ROTH CEO Sagar Sheth, CMO Isabel Mattson-Pain, ROTH Sustainability Banking Senior Advisor John Cavalier, Meta World Peace, Roma Stibravy, President of NGO Sustainability and UN Advisor to ROTH, Herbert (Beto) Bedolfe III, Founder of OCEANA, Executive Director of the Marisla Foundation, and Board Member of SIMA, Scott Kitcher, CEO of Sustain SoCal, Grammy-winning producer Jimmy Thomas, and leadership from organizations including Hollo.ai, Cox Communications, the Plastic Pollution Coalition, and the Surf Industry Manufacturers Association. Their presence spoke volumes about the type of environment ROTH continues to foster—one that blends innovation and investment with purpose and connection.

    “The Dana Point community has been an incredible partner to us over the last 25 years,” said ROTH CFO Gordon Roth. “We are honored and deeply grateful for the recognition from the city. But more importantly, we are proud of the meaningful relationships we’ve built and the positive impact we’ve been able to make together. From local nonprofits and small businesses to civic leaders and artists, this conference is a success because of the people who come together to make it so.”

    The ROTH Conference continues to be one of the premier investor events in the country, yet its strength lies in the relationships it cultivates—both in boardrooms and in the heart of Dana Point. As ROTH looks ahead to the next chapter, it remains committed to growing those relationships and deepening its impact as a partner, neighbor, and responsible corporate citizen.

    About ROTH
    ROTH is a relationship-driven investment bank focused on serving growth companies and their investors. Our full-service platform provides capital raising, high-impact equity research, macroeconomics, sales and trading, technical insights, derivatives strategies, M&A advisory, and corporate access. Headquartered in Newport Beach, California, ROTH is a privately held, employee-owned organization and maintains offices throughout the U.S. For more information on ROTH, please visit www.roth.com.

    Investor Contact:
    Roth Capital Partners
    Isabel Mattson-Pain
    Managing Director, Chief Marketing Officer
    949.720.7117, imattson-pain@roth.com
    ROTH – Member FINRA/SIPC – www.roth.com

    Media Contact:
    IBN
    Austin, Texas
    www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com
    512.354.7000 Office
    Editor@InvestorBrandNetwork.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Appliance efficiency standards save consumers billions, reduce pollution and fight climate change

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By David J. Vogel, Professor Emeritus of Business Ethics and Political Science, University of California, Berkeley

    Refrigerators were the target of the very first energy efficiency standards for appliances, back in 1974. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

    President Donald Trump has said he wants to reverse decades of regulations about energy efficiency in American household appliances, claiming doing so will provide Americans with “freedom to choose” products that meet their needs.

    In an April 9, 2025, statement, Trump claimed he could alter government regulations on his own, without the legally required process of public notice and comment.

    But as a scholar of environmental regulations, I know those regulations were created to save energy and lower utility bills for consumers. I also know that many companies and consumers have supported federal regulation to strengthen energy efficiency standards and generally have opposed weakening them.

    The first government-set energy efficiency standards for appliances were issued by California in 1974. They were initially for refrigerators, the household appliance that used the most energy. Subsequently, several other household appliances were added. During the next decade, more states issued standards, as saving energy would help avoid the costs of constructing new power plants.

    The proliferation of state standards led the federal government to prohibit states from issuing appliance efficiency standards once the federal government had done so. The first federal standards, in 1987, applied to 13 household products, including refrigerators.

    Since then, the federal government has created standards for additional products and tightened existing ones. Those changes have progressively made home appliances and business and industrial equipment more efficient, saving consumers billions of dollars, decreasing air pollution from power plants and reducing carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to climate change.

    Electric meters like these at a Mississippi apartment complex keep track of how much – or how little – electricity residents use.
    AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis

    Broad application

    Federal data indicates that 40% of total U.S. energy consumption – and 28% of U.S. carbon dioxide emissions – is attributable to household and industrial appliances, such as heating and cooling systems, refrigerators, lighting and various kinds of equipment, such as computers, printers and electric motors.

    At present, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Appliance and Equipment Standards Program covers more than 70 products that the government estimates consume about 90% of energy used in homes, 70% of energy in commercial buildings and 30% of energy used in industry. The government estimates the standards saved American consumers $105 billion just in 2024 – with a typical household saving about $576 over the expenses if there were no efficiency standards.

    Appliance energy efficiency standards now in place are cumulatively expected by the Department of Energy to reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 2 billion metric tons over 30 years. That’s as much carbon dioxide as 15 million gas-powered cars would emit in that same period.

    Many federal standards, including on light bulbs, electric motors and commercial heating and cooling equipment, have been based on those previously adopted by one or more states. Federal law permits states to issue standards for products that the federal government has not yet regulated: As of 2024, 18 states had set efficiency rules for a total of 22 types of appliances, including computers and televisions.

    Additional benefits

    These appliance standards have reduced American energy use, including electricity. The existing national standards are projected to reduce overall national energy consumption by 10% between 2025 and 2035.

    Those standards also improve public health, because there is less need to build new fossil-fuel power plants or operate existing ones. As a result, power generators have been able to reduce their emissions of dangerous pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide and mercury.

    Energy efficiency standards reduce the need for fossil fuel-powered electric plants, like this one in Ohio.
    Jim West/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    A popular policy

    Making appliances more energy efficient has proved popular. A national survey released by the Consumer Federation of America in 2018 found that 71% of Americans “support the idea that the government should set and update energy efficiency standards for appliances.” Significantly, 72% of those surveyed named lowering electrical bills and 57% stated that avoiding construction of new power plants to keep electricity rates from rising were important reasons to increase appliance efficiency.

    Support remains strong: A June 2024 YouGov poll found that 60% of Americans support tougher appliance efficiency standards.

    From 1987 through 2007, more than three-quarters of national appliance energy efficiency standards were passed into law by Congress, with the rest created by administrative processes under existing laws. These legal standards received bipartisan support and were signed into law by Republican Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush.

    But more recently, partisanship has affected the setting of standards. Since 2008, whether standards improve or remain unchanged has depended on whether Democrats or Republicans occupied the White House.

    Political back-and-forth

    The Obama administration enacted among the most ambitious energy efficiency standards for appliances and equipment to date. New standards for commercial air conditioners and furnaces affected heating and cooling equipment for half of the square footage used by the nation’s businesses. The rules were projected to reduce energy costs to businesses by $167 billion over the life of the regulated products.

    But during the first Trump administration, improvements in existing standards came to a halt.

    When Joe Biden became president, his administration resumed issuing new standards, most notably phasing out incandescent light bulbs. The Biden administration also issued new standards for furnaces, residential water heaters, stoves, washing machines and refigerators.

    Electric induction stoves, like this one, are more energy efficient than gas stoves.
    Hans Gutknecht/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images

    Controversy continues

    A new Biden rule for electric motors, which are widely used in manufacturing and processing equipment, incorporated recommendations from businesses and advocacy organizations. The rule was slated to take effect in 2028 and was expected to save businesses and consumers up to $8.8 billion over a 30-year period.

    But the Trump administration has withdrawn this standard, along with others issued by the Biden administration, including for ceiling fans, dehumidifers and external power supplies. The administration has postponed the effective dates of other standards that had been finalized before Trump took office. The administration said the reversals would “slash unnecessary red tape and regulations that raise prices, reduce consumer choice, and frustrate the American people.”

    Another set of politically controversial standards Biden introduced sought to encourage consumers to switch from stoves, furnaces and water heaters that use natural gas or propane to electric ones. The electric versions of those appliances are more energy efficient, while gas cooking emits toxic chemicals into the home. Switching can be expensive, and many consumers prefer gas-powered appliances, as of course does the natural gas industry, which has opposed these federal efforts.

    And in early April 2025, Republicans in Congress used their legislative authority to overturn the regulations for natural gas water heaters. But most of the federal standards – and all of the state ones – remain in effect, at least for now.

    David J. Vogel does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Appliance efficiency standards save consumers billions, reduce pollution and fight climate change – https://theconversation.com/appliance-efficiency-standards-save-consumers-billions-reduce-pollution-and-fight-climate-change-253673

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –